The Office of the Auditor General has expanded its ethnic diversity, now representing 35 of Kenya’s 46 ethnic communities. According to the latest report presented by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu, Kikuyu employees make up 24.33% of the workforce, followed closely by the Luo at 21.79%.
Other significant groups include Kamba and Luhya, each accounting for approximately 8.6%, Kalenjin at 8.48%, and Kisii at 8.24%. Smaller communities such as Meru, Mijikenda, Somali, Maasai, and others also contribute to the growing inclusivity within the office.
Growing Representation and Inclusion Efforts
Since 2023, the number of ethnic communities represented has increased from 24 to 35 in 2026. The office has committed to merit-based recruitment while ensuring broader community representation. Gathungu emphasized the progress made in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Gender and Youth Composition
- Men constitute 56% of the workforce, with women at 44%, aligning with constitutional gender balance requirements.
- Youth aged 18 to 35 now represent 36.4% of staff, up from 29.4% in 2025.
- Over 60% of employees are under 40, creating a pipeline for future leadership.
Increased Disability Inclusion
The number of employees with disabilities has risen steadily from 2.07% in 2023 to 2.97% in 2026. Recruitment over the past three years included 24 persons with disabilities, constituting 4.2% of new hires.
Challenges Remain at Senior Management Level
Despite overall gains, gender imbalance persists in senior management, where men hold 76.47% of positions and women 23.53%. Only two persons with disabilities serve in senior leadership roles. The office plans to address these gaps through equitable recruitment, mentorship, and leadership development.
Auditor General Gathungu reaffirmed the office’s commitment to uphold inclusion while maintaining the accountability standards it enforces on public institutions.
